Lemon

Botanical Name: Citrus limon

Botany and Origins: The lemon tree is believed to be a native of south-eastern China. It is believed to arrived to Europe via Persia and the Middle East with the returning crusaders in the 12th century. Columbus brought lemon and orange seeds on his second voyage to the West Indies in 1493. Little did he know he would be found the world's largest lemon industry by the 20th century. The lemon tree fruits all year round, the fruits appearing with a deep green colour and ripening to a bright yellow. Lemon oil is mostly cultivated in California and Florida and in southern Europe.

Method of Extraction: Lemon oil is obtained from the peel by cold expression.

Cultivation: Conventional

Historical and Traditional Uses: Lemon juice was considered the best of all antiscorbutics (a remedy for scurvy). English ships were required by law to carry sufficient lemon or lime juice for every seaman to have once daily after being at sea for ten days or more. The juice was used as a diaphoretic and diuretic. Lemon juice is highly recommended in acute rheumatism and sometimes given to counteract narcotic poisons. The juice is a good astringent and is said to be the best cure for severe, obstinate hiccoughs, and is helpful in jaundice and hysterical palpitation of the heart. Lemon oil is extensively used in pharmaceuticals as a flavouring agent, and as a fragrance ingredient in soaps, detergents and perfumes.

Pharmacology and Clinical Studies: Lemon oil has exhibited antimicrobial properties. Studies in Japan found that when dispersed through the room, lemon oil reduced typing errors by 54%.

Indications:

• Circulatory System: Lemon oil is an excellent tonic for the circulatory system, reducing blood viscosity and helping to break up plaque deposits in the arteries, reducing cholesterol. It is an excellent remedy for tonifying the blood vessels and it may be used for varicose veins, broken capillaries, haemorrhoids and nosebleeds.
• Immune System: The antimicrobial qualities of lemon oil are very useful for treating the symptoms of colds, flu, bronchitis and asthma. Lemon oil kills Diphtheria bacilli in 20 minutes at a dilution of only 0.2%. Lemon oil is often referred to as having immune-stimulating properties, meaning that it stimulates the production of white blood cells to fight off invading bacteria.
• Lymphatic System: Lemon oil can be used as a mild detoxifier and is very useful for the treatment of toxaemia or for cellulite.
• Nervous System: Lemon oil is reputed to have 'high vibrations' which can lift the spirits and overcome mental fatigue. Lemon oil clears the mind very effectively and is said to aid in the decision making process without over stimulating the mind. In fact, it can be very calming for those who are emotionally overwrought.
• Skin Care: Lemon oil acts as an astringent, counteracting overproduction of sebum, and is especially useful for teenage problem skins. It tones aging skin and has antibacterial properties that are beneficial for the treatment of acne and boils. It is recommended for treating warts and verrucae.

Safety: Lemon oil is non-toxic, non-irritating. Sensitisation can occur in some people. It should not be used on the skin prior to exposure to the sun as it is photo-toxic. 

Country of Origin: Spain

Size: 10ml, 30ml, 50ml (for 100ml and above, please contact us)